Standard Consistency Test of CEMENT
Key Concepts:
- Standard Consistency Test: Determines the water content required to achieve a standard consistency of cement paste.
Instruments:
- Vicat apparatus
- Standard consistency plunger (10 mm in diameter)
- Weighing balance
- Gauging trowel
Procedure:
- Weighing: Measure 400g of cement
- Mixing with Water: Add water (initial trial percentage 25% by weight of cement) to the cement and mix it thoroughly.
- Filling the Mould: Fill the Vicat mould with the cement paste without trapping air.
- Plunger Test: Place the mould in the Vicat apparatus and gently release the plunger.
- Measure Penetration: Measure the depth of penetration of the plunger into the cement paste.
- Adjust Water Content: Adjust the water content and repeat the test until the plunger penetrates to a point 5-7mm from the bottom of the Vicat mould.
- Record Results: Document the water content percentage that achieves the standard consistency.
Sample Calculation:
- If 26% of water is roughly found:
- Cement weight = 400g
- Water required = 0.26 * 400 = 104g
Suitability:
- The consistency test ensures that the cement paste is neither too dry nor too fluid for further tests such as setting time and soundness.
- It is critical for accurate and reliable results in subsequent tests.
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